A Film and Faith Leader's Guide: Theme 1 Practicing Friendship equips youth pastors and small group leaders to explore the key theme of Practicing Friendship as presented in the award-winning film Because of Grácia. This three-session study will inspire students to think about teen dating, relationships, and sexuality in new ways, encouraging them to first form friendships based on mutual respect. As Grace shows Chase in the film, these conversations explore how Jesus maintained an ideal balance between personal holiness and relationships with others. This leader's guide is designed for use with Theme I: Practicing Friendship of the related Because of Grácia Film and Faith Conversation Guide for students, a unique hybrid experience that offers complementary material for small group sessions, as well as daily reflections for students to use throughout the week in "conversation partner" pairs. The Because of Grácia curriculum affirms that with God's amazing and empowering grace, young people CAN live in a new way. Take your students on a spiritual journey alongside Grácia, Chase, and the rest of Eastglenn High as they face life-altering decisions, learning that grace is both the gift of mercy when we fail and our empowerment to live in truth and light.